Where can I camp for free in Washington?

In Washington State, you can find free camping in various National Forests and on Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Some popular options include: Olympic National Forest : Dispersed camping is allowed in many areas of the forest. Gifford Pinchot National Forest : Dispersed camping is available in select areas. Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest : This forest offers numerous free dispersed camping options. Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest : Dispersed camping is allowed in certain areas of the forest. BLM lands: Various BLM lands throughout Washington State offer free camping opportunities. Remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and be aware that amenities are usually not available at these free camping sites.

Can you camp on the beach in Washington?

You can camp on the beach in Washington State in designated areas and campgrounds. Some popular beach camping locations include: Kalaloch Campground in Olympic National Park , which offers campsites near the beach with amenities such as picnic tables, fire pits, and restrooms. Shi Shi Beach, also in Olympic National Park , where you can camp on the beach with a backcountry camping permit. This is a more remote and primitive camping experience. Cape Disappointment State Park near the mouth of the Columbia River, which offers campsites, yurts, and cabins within walking distance of the beach. It's essential to follow all regulations and obtain necessary permits when camping on the beach in Washington . Additionally, always practice Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty of these areas. Find more beach camping in Washington .

Can you camp on the beach on the Washington coast?

Yes, you can camp on the beach along the Washington coast in certain areas. Beach camping in Washington is typically allowed on public lands, such as the Olympic National Park and Washington State Parks. Some popular beach camping spots include: Kalaloch Campground in Olympic National Park offers campsites near the beach with facilities like picnic tables and fire pits. Second Beach in Olympic National Park is a popular backpacking destination, where you can camp right on the beach after a short hike. Cape Disappointment State Park offers beach camping with facilities, including restrooms and showers, and is located near the historic Lewis and Clark trail. South Beach Campground in Olympic National Park has primitive campsites with beach access and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Keep in mind that some locations may require permits or have specific regulations for beach camping. Always check the rules and regulations before heading out. For more beach camping options along the Washington coast, visit Hipcamp.

Camping in Washington: Best Washington Campgrounds 2023

United States
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Washington

96% (32307 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Washington

Under $50

93%

(192)

Top camping destinations

Breakfast at Heart Lake, in the Seven Lakes Basin

Olympic National Park

Okanogan-Wenatchee National Forest

1069 campgrounds

Mount Rainier National Park

Mount Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest

1170 campgrounds

12 top campgrounds in Washington

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The Cedar River Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Hobart, King

The Cedar River Retreat is its own little oasis. Located past an old fisherman's community along the river, close to shopping and stores but tucked away from it all just enough to reconnect with nature. This plot was purchased in 2016 and we hope you have a great time creating memories like we have over the last few years. We currently have an off-grid cabin, RV site and a tent camping only site. The outdoors are for everyone! We are excited to host you soon! Happy adventuring! Follow us on Instagram- @cedar_riverretreat

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Olympic Wilderness Basecamp

7 sites · Lodging10 acres · Mason

Olympic Wilderness Basecamp offers a truly unique and hassle-free camping experience. Unlike traditional camping, visitors can leave most of their gear at home and still enjoy all the amenities and comforts of a luxurious camping trip.Nestled in the shadow of the Olympic Mountains, this premier off-grid camping location provides a breathtaking escape into the wild for those seeking an adventurous journey surrounded by nature. We offer fully furnished accommodations, complete with comfortable queen-sized beds, woodstoves, chairs, lanterns, and a solar generator, all designed to offer a luxurious, off-grid living experience in the heart of the wilderness.Visitors can explore the area’s stunning trails, dig for clams, forage for mushrooms, or simply lounge in the woods and enjoy the tranquility of the forest. This makes it the perfect destination for those seeking a hassle-free camping experience without sacrificing comfort or adventure.At Olympic Wilderness Basecamp, visitors have the chance to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with family, friends, and nature. Whether you’re seeking a solo adventure, a family vacation, or a romantic getaway, we are the ultimate destination for those who want to immerse themselves in the great outdoors without the stress and burden of packing and carrying gear.

The Hairy Eagle Lookout 🦅

3 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Olympia, Thurston

Experience breathtaking views! Positioned atop a 500ft hill, you will witness phenomenal sights of Puget Sound inlets, Mount Rainer, St Helens, Adams, and much more on a clear day. Resting against the Capitol State Forest, and mere miles away from Olympic National Forest, this serene secluded location is surrounded by majestic beauty. Recently awarded runner-up for the best Hipcamp in Washington 2023!

Dean’s Campground

14 sites · RVs, Tents11 acres · Auburn, King

We are located in Auburn, Washington 3 minutes off Highway 18. Our location is ideal for those commuting between national parks, from the US / CA border, or a quick overnight to get away from the city. Bears, bobcats, coyotes and more frequent the property. Largely untouched by humans for the last 50 years (after a once-over by Weyerhaeuser), most of the property still serves as an unofficial refuge. We are bordered by King County protected wetlands, backed by a few newer builds, and not super stoked on the new multi-million dollar neighborhood in construction on the other property line. Our history - In 1975 Dean and Barbara Inabnit purchased 11 undeveloped acres from Weyerhaeuser. Dean’s plan to bring two manufactured homes to the property was only shortly delayed by a $20,000 bid per house to have the Coast Guard airlift the houses into place. The only option, it seemed. Dean took his $40,000 and purchased a bulldozer and tractor. Weyerhaeuser granted Dean permission to widen well over 2 miles of a county access road through the forest from the direction of the nearby fire station. He drug the homes through his temporary driveway and finally in 1978, the houses were hooked up to water, sewer, and power. They moved in. He spent the next few years building a logging road as his main drive from Auburn-Black Diamond, sourcing all materials from the land. Dean and Barbara finished raising their family here, and for a while, their grandchildren enjoyed the land, too. Dean is 82 years old. His children and grandchildren return every so often as guests at the campground. As a father / daughter team willing and able to tackle projects, we purchased this property in 2020. Our purchase allowed Dean to relax and retire to the Centralia area with family. We bought his bulldozer and his tractor, and he and his family are happy to know we are continuing their hard work.

Shangri La Push

16 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Forks, Clallam

Heated full service bathroom with Hot shower. We have firewood for sale by small wagonload.. Includes kindling and fire-starter. $10 It is very rewarding to be entering our 6th season of Shangri La Push. We have grown from a few meadow tent sites in 2018 to a full service campground in 2023. Shangri La Push is a private property we want to share with like-minded travelers who enjoy the great outdoors of the Pacific Northwest. Traffic noise is evident from La Push Rd during peak season. Check out our 2 listings. We offer 8 individual tent sites and 5 RV sites all within the beautiful 5 acres of Alder Groves. Enjoy sparkling meadows of tall grasses and majestic fir trees. The ground is level packed dirt and light gravel for tents. Campsites/RV sites each has its own picnic table and fire ring. We have 2 hot showers, one flush toilet and 2 porta potties. We are located in the great northwest, near Forks WA, 8 miles off Highway 101 on State Highway 110 (La Push Road) 5 miles from La Push. 9 miles from Forks. Forks (made famous by author Stephanie Meyer's setting here, her internationally known vampire love-story series; Twilight.) Forks is a small, yet full-service town with banks, restaurants, post office, outfitters, guide services, hardware, hospital, pharmacy and grocery stores. Just 5 miles from the Native-American Quileute Village of La Push and their amazing beaches: First, Second, Third Beach and also nearby; Rialto Beach. Second Beach is alleged to be in the top 5 most beautiful beaches in the world. Surfing, hiking, kayaking and bird-watching are some of the many activities to enjoy in the area. Keep an eye out for the Elk herd, seen often in the area.

Unique Bay Front Camping

5 sites · RVs6 acres · Aberdeen, Grays Harbor

PLEASE NO FIREWORKS ON SITE OR SURROUNDING AREA. We bought this land in 2017, there were 7 derelict mobile homes on the property. We cleaned up the area and remodeled the house next door and put in the 5 RV sites. We hope you enjoy this property as much as we do, it is a one-of-a-kind beautiful, quiet place. Our sites are just a couple feet from the bay with access to miles of beach hiking. You can walk to Bottle Beach State Park which is approximately 1 mile north or hike about a mile south to Elk River. Enjoy unobstructed views of Westport and the freight ships coming into the harbor. Enjoy a peaceful beach with amazing sunsets. Whether you are surfing for the weekend or tuna-fishing, this is your go to spot - you will not be disappointed. Westport is 7 miles by car and the Westport Winery is only 5 miles. There is two nearby boat launches - one off of Elk River just 2 miles away and the other off of Johns River launch just 6 miles away. We are located in the middle of an outdoor paradise and want others to enjoy all it has to offer.

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Romantic Forest Hide-a-Way

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · White Salmon, Klickitat

Largely constructed from materials lovingly and gently harvested on-site, the Yurt at Rivendell is a sanctuary of peace and serenity. A place for rejuvenation and inspiration. The yurt began as a rustic structure utilizing lumber from trees selectively harvested to protect the health of the forest. But, the more Roy worked on the Yurt the more it spoke to him letting him know how to proceed and what it should become -- resulting in this phenomenally peaceful and stress-free wilderness sanctuary where the sun, the moon and the stars wink at you through the gentle undulations of the 100-year-old Douglas Firs Trees or through the ambient ether of the adjoining meadows. Our property is located 1hr and 30 minutes from Mt Hood in Oregon. We are located in White Salmon, Washington. There are enough things to do in White Salmon, including hiking trails, biking trails, white water rafting, waterfalls, and paddling spots to keep you entertained for a weekend, week, or lifetime! NOTE: While we do accept Instant Bookings for both our Tree House and Yurt there may very rarely be a conflict with a booking received earlier from another site when the HipCamp calendar has not been updated to reflect that booking. In that case, we default to the earliest booking and work with the guest to see if there are other dates which will work.

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Lorena Butte Lookout Tower

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents400 acres · Goldendale, Klickitat

The Lefever Holbrook Ranch offers a unique stay overlooking some of washington’s most scenic views. Enjoy educational workshops and local adventures through the Gorge. Tour the land and hear about Paulette’s ranching philosophy. The ranch stores are open by appointment, so stock up on the ranches products grass-fed beef, lamb, pork, chickens, turkey, and rabbit or graze the greenhouse or gardens for just picked in season vegetables or catch on the daily evening barns tours available with sign up.

Naked Falls

21 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Stevenson, Skamania

Naked Falls is the second largest waterfall on the Washougal River. This section of the river has been a hotspot for Kayakers and Cliff divers for decades. If you like watching Salmon run, this is a great place to do it. This is easy car access to a raw outdoor camping experience. You will be camping next to the crystal clear Washougal River and have access to Naked Falls and Reeder Falls. Come prepared as the nearest potable water source is at least a mile away and you won't see any lights or electrical outlets on the property. There are portables toilet now between sites 4 and 5 on the east side of the road and between sites 15 and 16 on the west side. Portable toilets taken out in Mid October and put back in in Mid March. Firewood is not delivered to each site if you order it. There are many good reasons for this, not the least of which is that it can rain and then all the wood gets wet. We keep the firewood in a small woodshed and give you instructions on where to find it and what the code is before you check in. Also, please remember that I don't live there and there is limited service on the property. If you have questions, please contact me in advance as I may be unreachable when you arrive at the property. The Campsites mostly go in the order they appear as you drive through the campground. With some exceptions. Sites 8 and 11 (in that order) are up the hill from the fork at site 2. Sites 12 through 19 are in order on the West side of the river. There are signs with the site numbers next to each site. The sites each have their own parking spaces. Please see the brief descriptions below so you have a good idea of what kind of experience you can expect at each site. If you are not familiar with the area, or even if you haven't camped there before, I recommend contacting me for directions or information about the area before you go up. Also, if you have an RV, you will want to contact me to discuss which site you really want to book depending on the size of your RV, awnings, slide outs, etc. Each booked site is allowed 2 cars or 1 RV. If you have more than 2 cars or 1 RV, there is a fee of 10.00 per additional vehicle. Camping was banned all along the upper Washougal River in 2006 due to abuse from the public. An attitude that no one could be trusted up there formed and I lost my favorite place to camp in the whole world...but I understood why they did it. In 2017 I bought the property and worked with Skamania County to restore camping and the public trust in good people who love nature. There are now 20 campsites, mostly along the river, and I'm so pleased that the vast majority of Hipcampers are reliable co-stewards of this amazing recreational resource. It is up to us to keep Naked Falls available by keeping in mind that it is a crucial fish and wildlife habitat and we are but visitors there. Be sure to stick to trails and pack in/pack out. Nothing from town should be left there and nothing there should be brought back to town. *** Site 1: Saltness Creek This is the only site with direct trail access to the river on the camping side. It's also right on a creek and encompasses a corner of the confluence of the creek and the Washougal River. It's a nice open space right off the gravel road which allows you to park right by where you will set up tents and have your campfire. It also means other campers will drive right by your site and they will need to pass by it to take the trail to the river. This site is very convenient but not very private. Site 2: Naked Falls There is a short narrow trail that leads to the campsite on the Naked Falls cliff. It's awesome! This is the original campsite at Naked Falls and has likely been there for 100 years or more. It overlooks the waterfall and island downstream. It's really the coolest campsite but it's not for everybody. The area for pitching tents is smaller than at the other sites. Only 2 medium sized tents will fit comfortably. You may be able to cram 3 tents in but should be aware that it's only really meant for 2. Groups larger than 6 may want to consider another site. Also, it is right on the cliff where people like to jump so, while you have the best view of all the fun stuff happening at the falls, you also have cliff divers coming up to say hi during the day. Site 3: Desk Job This site is just past the falls. It has a wide short trail to the camping area and a beautiful view of the river that passes right by the site about 30 ft below it. It is nice, quiet and secluded. Site 4: Middle Management This site is nice for pulling vehicles in and around. It loops around some trees in the center. The trees to the east and North are all alders so it has limited shade in the morning when there aren't leaves on the trees (winter and early spring) The trail down is wide and short. There is a small opening with a nice view of the river and it's quiet. A great place to listen to the flow of the river and the beat of your heart. Site 5: Conference Room The Conference Room is tucked into the woods a little more than the other sites. It's right over the river just like all the rest of the sites but the trees like living on that cliff...like a whole bunch. You can walk to the edge and see the river but it's not the most open view of the river. I love this site. It has two old growth stumps from the first harvest ever at Naked Falls. They tell stories of the Yacolt burn and a lot of hard winters. A short narrow trail get's you from your car to to the camping area in about 20 steps. Site 6: Printer Jam This site is quite large and has the most extensive view of the river. Great for bigger groups or bigger tents. This is a chill spot where you can roast marshmallows while watching the flow of the Washougal River 35 ft below. Site 7: Budget Meeting This site is not meant for vehicle traffic! Please do not drive your vehicle onto the site as that has caused damage to the site itself and it needs to recover. The last site on the road has the longest walk...about 50 yards. It is also a large space and is the most secluded. It's the longest distance from river access but also the most private. The walk down passes an old growth tree that must have fallen decades ago. It has a huge base and the root structure is about 12 ft tall. There are a variety of trees that hug this campsite. If you don't mind the walk, you are sure to dig the vibe at our version of a Budget Meeting. Site 8: The Slash Pile Please read this full description before booking. I'm giving this site a go because I think it's a rather unique experience for the right people. This site sits up above all the river sites. It is not on a river but has a river view and view of all the other campsites. It is surrounded by a slash pile which is the wood debris left over from logging. You can drive right to it but only if you have 4wd/AWD. The road is also surrounded by alder trees that might slap the side of your car as you go up so if you are concerned about that, this is not the spot for you. There is not much shade up there either. You may want to bring a shade tent. The site is fairly large and has plenty of room for tents but I don't recommend any trailers or RVs here due to the steep rocky road. Your walk to the river will be about as long as the walk from site 7. It will be an easy walk down and a bit of a trek up. If no one books this site, I will totally understand but It's a cool spot if you are cool with the challenges it presents. Site 9: Hard Scramble Creek This site is embedded in the woods and has the most tree cover. It is even further from the river access than site 8...about a half mile walk. There is plenty of room but only one way in and out so turning around should be thought out before you set up your tents. Also, I've seen people pull off trailering large rigs up there but I'm pretty sure it was painstaking. If you have a large RV or Trailer, I would skip this site. Smaller trailers and RVs should be fine if you have some experience and patience. This site is quiet and the sound of the creek is soothing during the day and night. Site 10: Rock Beach Woods This site is in the woods along the river near an inviting rock beach that flows into a crystal clear swimming hole. This site is not behind a gate and day use visitors are allowed to use the trail and access the rock beach. The rock beach gets less traffic than we have right by Naked Falls but it is part of the day use area. This is a park and walk site. Parking is along the main road and you hike in about 50 yards to the campsite. This is one of the coolest campsites we have. Literally cooler as it is along the river edge and not along a cliffside like most of the other sites. Also cooler because it is under deep tree cover with soft mossy terrain. If you like the sounds of the river, shady woods and very close access to swimming, you will love this site! Site 11: This One Goes to Eleven! Situated on the top of the hill, this site has the most impressive views of all the sites! About a 270 degree view of the surrounding mountain region give you a great vantage point that often includes eagles flying below you, elk across the valley and a variety of other wildlife. This site is the farthest from the river, civilization and all the other campsites. If you are looking for something remote and have a 4wd/AWD vehicle, this might be the best site for you. Sites 12-19: All of these sites are right near the West side of the river. They were designed to accommodate RVs and Trailers. They are made for one trailer or RV per site or 2 camper vans. Tents are fine here too. There is easy in and out access to each site. It is nearer to the W2000 road and the sites are a bit closer together. There is still a significant amount of treed space between each site, just not as much as the original campsites. They each have a fire pit and cleared space for tents along with the graveled area for parking your RV. The sites are fairly level but not perfect and some leveling may be required depending on the size of your RV. This area has it's own trail down to the river or you can use the day use trail just a short walk North past the wooden Naked Falls sign. There are 3 total vehicles allowed at each of these sites (no exceptions) that includes the rv or trailer. So, truck and trailer count as one and you can have one addition car...or you can have 3 cars if you are car or tent camping. There is a charge of 10.00 extra for the third vehicle. No parking is allowed along the W2000 road unless you have a Naked Falls parking pass for day use. Site 0. This is the old site 12 that I had closed down. It is just up the hill from the fork at site 2. So at the fork near site 2, you will take a left and go up the hill about a quarter of a mile. It will be on your right hand side before you get to site 8. This is a large site part way up a hill surrounded by trees about 15 ft high. Very little shade, so you will want to bring a shade tent in the Summertime.

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The Lookout

2 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Clear Lake, Skagit

The Lookout is an amazing piece of property with elevations with expansive south facing views of Clear Lake, Rainier, Olympics, and the foothills of the Cascades. The site is perfect for sunsets, a launch pad to activities in Skagit Valley, and most importantly a private mountain bike flow trail (experts only at this time). More trails coming this fall! Check us out on IG @___the_lookout

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Wild WA Coast Lookout ($75 - $125)

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents23 acres · Forks, Jefferson

Welcome to Aliya Preserve. Originally owned by the developers of Kalaloch Lodge, this was slated to be an expansion site for the lodge. That development would have drastically changed the land. Making it available for campers allows us to both share the beauty and keep it pristine. From your mossy bank perched above the panoramic Pacific, beneath burley spruce tree boughs, magic sunsets unfold at your own super-private and secluded campsite with fire-pit. Adjacent to Olympic National Park, this is the same beach and bluff that defines Kalaloch, LaPush and and other wild Washington coastal icons. As the stewards of this land, we are now inviting respectful and responsible small groups and families to share its beauty. Please make sure to check the site *title* for number of campers allowed in each site. For example only two people are allowed in sites 1 & 4.

97%

(17)

Overnight at the Oasis

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Anatone, Asotin

Boggan's Oasis is in the SE corner of Washington state, right on the breathtaking Grande Ronde River. Visitors can arrive by driving to the bottom of Rattlesnake Grade (WA-129), or the bottom of Buford Grade (OR-3). These two curvacious roads are extremely popular rides for motorcyclists and bicyclists nationally. Visitors may also arrive by water (rafts, driftboats, jetboats, kayaks, etc) coming downriver from Oregon, or upriver from the Snake River (WA/ID). Many other unpaved roads will lead guests to our canyon, which creates great opportunities for off-road vehicle adventures! The Grande Ronde River, which drains much of northeast Oregon's Union and Wallowa counties, is fed by snowpack in the Elkhorn Mountains. The Wallowa River, a major tributary to the Grande Ronde, headwaters in the Wallowa Mountains, mostly within the Eagle Cap Wilderness. Twenty-two miles from Boggan's Oasis, the Grande Ronde River flows into the mighty Snake River. The river is surrounded by steep, rugged canyon walls that rise 3000 to 4000 feet above the river level. Dense conifer forests blend into grassy slopes set off by scattered conifer "stringers." Called "The Land of Winding Waters" by Native Americans, the river is home to rainbow trout, dolly varden, whitefish, squawfish, suckers, bass, and steelhead. Rocky Mountain elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, bighorn sheep, bear, bald eagles, and a variety of smaller animals and birds can be seen daily. And yes, there are rattlesnakes! Fishing, hunting, hiking, all kinds of boating/floating, offroad vehicle riding, and animal/bird watching are beyond expectations in this area. Seasonally, guests can also successfully gather a variety of mushrooms and berries while on one of the many nearby hiking trails. Many of these short walks also lead to incredible, far-reaching views of the Blue Mountains, Wenaha wildlife sanctuary, Hells Canyon, and the tri-state area. In the hotter summer months, the swimming hole below the Boggan's Bridge is a popular way to cool off. Boggan's Oasis also offers fishing trips, float trips, shuttles, and a FULL restaurant! Check our website for more info.